'More deserving films than Raayan': Dhanush responds to National Awards backlash

Actor-director Dhanush has responded to the debate surrounding his double win at the 72nd National Film Awards, saying the honours came to him "naturally" rather than as the result of any calculated effort.

Speaking at a fan welfare and community event in Tamil Nadu, Dhanush addressed criticism over the National Awards, where Raayan won Best Tamil Film and he received a Special Mention for his performance in Captain Miller. The results sparked discussion among film lovers, many of whom felt other acclaimed Tamil films released during the eligibility period deserved greater recognition.

"This year, there are certainly many films more deserving of the National Award than Raayan," Dhanush said. "The fans of those films have expressed their dissatisfaction, and I completely respect that."

The actor pointed out that several of his own films—Pudhupettai, 3, Mayakkam Enna, Raanjhanaa, Maryan, Vada Chennai and Karnan—were widely expected to earn National Awards but ultimately missed out. Looking back, he said recognition often depends as much on timing as on merit.

"Some things do not happen even if you try. They happen naturally, and that is how this award has come to me," he said.

Dhanush added that the team behind Raayan had made the film with complete sincerity, regardless of the differing opinions it attracted after release.

"As a Tamilian, I have received these National Awards. Instead of tearing us down, encourage us," he said.